STEAM Education for Holistic Learning

Abstract

In the realm of Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC), there has been a long-standing tradition of effectively imparting fundamental skills to children. However, our contemporary world is marked by rapid and profound transformations. In response to these dynamic changes, an urgent need arises within the field of ECEC to critically reevaluate existing educational practices. It is no longer sufficient to rely solely on traditional approaches to skill development. Instead, there is a call for innovation and adaptation. This recognition acknowledges that the skills required for success in the 21st century are continually evolving.

The primary objective of this thesis is to increase awareness and understanding of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) education in kindergarten through the deliberate implementation and demonstration of Makerspace theory and activities.

In this chapter, we will demonstrate the seamless integration of STEAM Makerspace activities within the Finnish Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) system. Through a meticulously crafted series of hands-on activities, projects, and immersive learning experiences, we will explore the transformative potential of STEAM education in nurturing the holistic development of young learners. Specifically, we will showcase STEAM Makerspace projects conducted with five children aged 5-6 within a kindergarten setting. These projects serve as exemplars of how STEAM principles can be effectively implemented in early childhood education, fostering curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking among young learners. Additionally, it's important to note that a qualitative thesis was conducted to assess the impact and efficacy of these STEAM Makerspace activities, providing valuable insights into the experiences and perceptions of both educators and children.

It can be concluded that while the principles of Finnish (ECEC) have laid a strong foundation, there remains room for further implementation. Our endeavour through this study is to bridge this gap by introducing STEAM Makerspace education. By infusing STEAM principles into the existing educational framework, we aim to enrich the educational experience and better prepare young learners for the challenges of the future. We envision a future where STEAM Makerspace becomes an integral part of early childhood education, igniting a passion for lifelong learning and discovery.

Keywords: STEAM, Makerspace, early childhood education